How are Digitrax users upgrading their systems to use all 12 functions?

[darth9x9]

I taste tested several different DCC systems several years ago. I bought NCE and I haven't looked back. Now that NCE has an upgrade chip for a mere $5 to take advantage of the 12 functions now available in the newer decoders (see my post about LL P2K GP9s w/sound http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=27202), what is Digitrax doing for its customer base to keep them current with today's technology?

[jrbernier]

My Digitrax Chief and DT400 throttles seem to address the extended functions in my BLI engines with no problem and I can really see no issue with the P2K GP9's as they have the QSI decoder in them as well.
It is good to see NCE offer an upgrade path - a real good company from what I have seen.
I hope you are not trying to start a DCC 'flame war' - most 'high end' DCC units have all of the 'bells & whistles' - it is some of the older MRC Prodigy and the new Bachmann low end stuff that has limitations.....

Jim Bernier

[jrbernier]

Darth,
I did some research. The existing Zephyr & Chief series booster/command stations are capable of handling func 0-12. The Empire Builder booster/command station will address func 0-8. Not sure about the older 'Big Boy' or other discontinued line.
The existing EB can be upgraded to a Chief by purchasing a DCS100, the old DB150 can be used as a 'booster'.

Jim Bernier

[simon1966]

I have had my Zephyr for several months now and recently upgraded by adding an extra booster and a DT400 throttle from an Empire Builder set purchased cheap on e-bay. The DT400 throttle gives me 0-12 access without any firmware upgrade needed for the main command station.

[darth9x9]

Hey Jim,

No, I am not trying to start a flame war. I was just curious as to what others are experiencing. I used to know three people who had Digitrax systems but now they all have converted to NCE so I don't know how "the other half" (so to speak) lives. Thanks for all of your replies.

Bill

[Anonymous]

DT400 will do the trick for you, if you have a DB150 or a DCS100. I asked the Digitax tech the same question the other day, and he told me that would work.

Greg

[BRVRR]

I added a DT400 throttle to my system. It operates my BLI locos with no problems.

[Paul3]

darth9x9 wrote:

QUOTE: Now that NCE has an upgrade chip for a mere $5 to take advantage of the 12 functions now available in the newer decoders, what is Digitrax doing for its customer base to keep them current with today's technology?

Actually, Digitrax users have been able to access F9-F12 since June, 2002, when the DT400 came out. It's nice to see NCE finally catching up to Digitrax after two and a half years... [:D]

Also, Digitrax users now have the option of using the new UT4 throttle (both in tethered/IR or radio) to get access to F9-F12 for about half the cost of a simularly equipped DT400.

Paul A. Cutler III
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Weather Or No Go New Haven
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